How does dna determine a trait such as eye color
For every trait we have--eye color, skin color and so on--there is a gene or group of genes that controls the trait by producing first the message and then the protein. Sperm cells and eggs cells are specialized to carry DNA in such a way that, at fertilization, a new individual with traits from both its mother and father is created.
it is B
Really i think its D right?
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, plays a crucial role in determining traits such as eye color. Eye color is a polygenic trait, meaning it is influenced by multiple genes. To understand how DNA determines eye color, let me explain the basics:
1. Structure of DNA: DNA is made up of two strands wrapped around each other in a double helix structure. Each strand consists of a sequence of nucleotides, which are four chemical bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
2. Genes: Genes are segments of DNA that contain instructions for building specific proteins. Various genes influence eye color.
3. Eye color genes: Two main genes, known as OCA2 and HERC2, are primarily responsible for eye color variations. These genes are involved in the production and distribution of a pigment called melanin, which determines the color of our skin, hair, and eyes.
4. Melanin production: Melanin is produced by specialized cells in the body called melanocytes. It comes in two forms: eumelanin (dark brown or black pigment) and pheomelanin (red or yellow pigment).
5. OCA2 gene: The OCA2 gene regulates the amount of melanin produced. It controls the process by which melanin is transported to the iris of the eye, which gives color to the iris. Variation in the OCA2 gene can impact the amount of melanin, resulting in different eye colors.
6. HERC2 gene: The HERC2 gene interacts with the OCA2 gene. It regulates the expression of the OCA2 gene, controlling the amount of melanin produced by the melanocytes.
7. Other genes: Apart from OCA2 and HERC2, other genes, such as ASIP, TYR, and SLC24A4, can also influence eye color. These genes can affect the intensity or shade of melanin produced.
In summary, DNA determines eye color by regulating the production and distribution of melanin in the iris. Variations in specific genes, such as OCA2 and HERC2, play a role in determining the amount and type of melanin produced, resulting in different eye colors.